/ 21 November 2007

Doug Howlett found guilty of serious misconduct

All Black winger Doug Howlett was found guilty of serious misconduct by the New Zealand Rugby Union on Wednesday following an alcohol-fuelled incident in London.

The 29-year-old apologised last month after he was seen jumping on two cars outside a hotel at Heathrow Airport after drinking with teammates in the wake of the All Blacks’ shock World Cup quarterfinal loss to France.

Manager Darren Shand said Wednesday that Howlett’s penalty for the October 9 incident was being kept confidential.

”Doug faced intense public scrutiny over his behaviour and has faced up to his actions and made reparations,” Shand said.

He said the NZRU had taken into account the costs paid by Howlett as a result of the incident, his distinguished career with the All Blacks and his move to Irish club Munster at the start of next year.

Howlett said last month he would pay reparations to the owners of the cars he damaged and said he was embarrassed by his ”little bit of tomfoolery”.

The All Blacks record try-scorer is unlikely to play another Test for his country after taking up the two-year contract with Munster.

Only New Zealand-based players are eligible for selection. — Sapa-AFP